RALEIGH -- Insurance Commissioner Jim Long today encouraged North Carolinians to prepare for hurricane season, which begins June 1, by reviewing insurance policies, inventorying home contents and compiling important documents for safekeeping.

According to a new national survey conducted by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), 28 percent of consumers do not know what type of insurance coverage they purchased for their homes. And 48 percent said they do not have an inventory of their possessions.

"With hurricane season upon us, now is the time to educate yourself about your insurance coverage and take steps to prepare for recovery after a disaster," said Commissioner Long. "We all hope Mother Nature will spare us from bad weather this year, but we also know she can be fickle and unpredictable. Insurance coverage, however, is just the opposite - you can count on it to be there if a storm strikes. But you must fully understand what you have and make sure you've purchased the right protection for your family circumstances."

The NAIC study also found that most consumers do not have additional coverage that protects them from specific losses not reimbursed under standard policies. This additional coverage can be essential to recovering after a hurricane or major storm damage.

* 65 percent do not have flood insurance (and Department of Insurance experience shows many do not realize their homeowners policies do not cover flood damages)
* 56 percent do not have insurance for a water line break
* 55 percent do not have coverage for a sewer line break

Commissioner Long and the Department of Insurance suggest that North Carolinians remember the following storm preparation tips:

* Homeowners should review their insurance policies with their agents annually. Ask, "What exactly does my policy cover, and what needs are not met?" Consider that homeowners policies do not cover flood damage, and some policies in coastal areas may not cover windstorm damage. Don't wait until the storm is approaching to upgrade your coverage.

* Other items not covered by traditional insurance policies include water line or sewer line breaks, food spoilage in the event of a power outage, and high-dollar specialty items such as art, collectibles or jewelry. Extra coverage called riders can be purchased to cover these items.

* Flood insurance can be obtained by qualifying property owners by contacting your local agent or through the National Flood Insurance program. Call 800-638-6620 for more information.

* The Beach Plan is a protection program designed for property owners along the coast. It offers insurance policies for full coverage and also for wind and hail. For more information, call 800-662-7048.

* Residents living in rental property should consider purchasing renter's insurance to cover losses of personal property within the rental unit. Your landlord's policy will not cover your personal possessions in the event of a loss.

* Consider the type of coverage you purchase - actual cash value or replacement value. Replacement value will pay to replace your home at current building costs and with similar materials. This is usually a higher value and can cost a bit more, but this extra coverage can be important if your home is destroyed in a storm.

* Make a list of your belongings and take pictures or videotape them. Include a close-up shot of the day's newspaper to provide the date. Keep your inventory list along with purchase receipts, pictures and your insurance policy in a safe-deposit box or other safe place away from your home. If you are forced to evacuate, take a copy of your policy with you.

If you have any questions or problems concerning your insurance coverage, contact the Department of Insurance's Consumer Services Division toll-free (in-state) at 800-546-5664